Grants and donations help veterans memorial progress

By Julia Wolf

The Holcombe Area Veterans Memorial Planning Committee got some good news in the fundraising department, during a regular meeting April 21.

Dave Conrad, vice chairperson of the committee, says he recently got word that the memorial was awarded an RCU Foundation grant for $47,500. He and Doug Olson, Holcombe resident, wrote for the grant.

“That is awesome,” said Jim Mataczynski, group chairperson.

Conrad says the money awarded in the grant is earmarked for the brass United States of America seal, in the center of the star.

“The rest of the money goes toward the construction and development of that star,” said Conrad.

Conrad says it probably would benefit the memorial to order the emblem sooner, than later, so they have it when the time for installation comes around. Planning for an official donation presentation is in the works.

Mataczynski also reported the Town of Lake Holcombe voters decided to donate $2,000, during their annual voters meeting.

“So, that’s a good deal,” said Mataczynski. Committee members voted to officially accept the donations.

In an update on the 501(c)(3) application process, committee secretary Judy Simpson says the application is in progress and she has not gotten the paperwork back.

“So, that must be a good sign,” said Simpson. The friends group associated with the 501(c)(3) now has bylaws and officers.

Registration for the motorcycle ride fundraiser, set for June 18, will be open soon. The ride will start in Holcombe, and go to The Highground in Neillsville.